Moving On Up: Rail Leaders Launch Mentoring Scheme to Support Social Mobility

The scheme is led by ‘Beyond Barriers’, a community of industry colleagues and allies dedicated to improving social mobility within rail. The network is led by a passionate group who to aim amplify members’ voices, tackle barriers that may restrict access to opportunities, and drive change to create fair access for everyone.

The Beyond Barriers mentoring scheme will support members to access development opportunities and create clearer pathways into and within the industry.

Frances Walker, Head of Digital Services at LNER and Co-Chair of the Beyond Barriers network said: “We know that talent is everywhere, but opportunities are not always equally accessible. The new mentoring programme we’ve launched today will help to make sure people from all backgrounds can see a future for themselves in rail.

“As an industry, we are working together to make sure that rail is a route to progress. It’s been great to talk to so many people from all areas of the industry about what we can do to remove barriers and create a more inclusive railway, where everyone has the same chance to succeed.”

The new mentoring scheme is the first of several planned initiatives to support social mobility and develop future talent.

Speaking about industry efforts, Karen Lewis, HR Director at DFTO, the government’s public sector rail owning group, said: “The Beyond Barriers Network demonstrates what can be achieved when the railway comes together around a shared purpose. We are creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to build rewarding careers in rail and develop the skills, capability and leadership that will be critical to the future of our industry.

“It is also a tangible example of the benefits of greater integration across track and train. Through collaboration, we are building a more inclusive, connected and sustainable railway and laying the foundations for Great British Railways, creating a workforce that is equipped to meet the needs of future passengers, communities and the economy.”

To find out more about the new initiative and to register your interest, click here.